Insights Into Chikungunya Virus Seropositivity and Clinical Manifestations During the 2024 Upsurge: A Study From Central India

Abstract

Background Chikungunya remains a significant threat to public health in India, characterised by repeated resurgences. This study was conducted to describe the demographic and clinical profile and associated complications among chikungunya patients during the 2024 upsurge. Methods This retrospective observational study included patients with acute febrile illness who tested positive for chikungunya immunoglobulin M (IgM) using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) between January and December 2024. Demographic data, symptoms, comorbidities, co-infections, and complications were retrieved from institutional records. Statistical analysis was done using the chi-square test. Results A total of 943 patients were tested for chikungunya virus (CHIKV), of which 117 (12.4%) were positive. The majority were adults (19-49 years, 61.5%) and urban residents (60.7%). Arthralgia was the most common symptom, predominantly affecting large joints (65.8%) compared to small joints (50.4%). Rash was noted in 26.5% of cases. Complications occurred in 43.6% of patients. Among these complications, the most common was persistent arthralgia (13.7%). Conclusion The seropositivity study of the CHIKV upsurge has provided valuable insights into the symptomatology and complications associated with chikungunya infection. Chronic arthralgia for more than three months is the most common complication seen. Although studies have described greater involvement of small joints than large joints, in our case, we have reported a higher number of large-joint involvements in chikungunya.